Rare Recording of Yes Covering The Beatles' 'Eleanor Rigby' Surfaces Online

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Context of the Cover
4. Analyzing the Yes Version
5. The Discovery
6. Historical Context of Yes
7. The Bigger Picture: Music Reclamation
8. Implications and Future Developments
9. Conclusion
10. FAQ

Key Highlights

• A previously unreleased studio recording of Yes covering The Beatles' "Eleanor Rigby" has emerged, recorded in 1969.
• The rendition offers a unique take with a faster tempo and psychedelic elements remarkable for its time.
• This cover is part of an ongoing trend of historical music re-releases, sparking renewed interest among fans.

Introduction

When it comes to fabled rock bands, few can match the enigmatic aura of Yes and their bold interpretations of popular songs. Recently, an unexpected gem surfaced: a studio recording of Yes covering The Beatles' iconic "Eleanor Rigby," capturing an era of music innovation and bravado. The recording, touted as "the first (failed) take" of their rendition, was recorded in February 1969 at London’s Polydor Studios and has surfaced on platforms like YouTube, sparking a wave of excitement among fans of both bands.

This article delves into the significance of this newly uncovered recording, placing it within the broader context of Yes's musical evolution and their relationship with The Beatles—two titan bands from different eras of rock history.

The Context of the Cover

In 1966, The Beatles released "Eleanor Rigby" as part of their seminal album Revolver, which transformed popular music with its profound lyrical content and orchestral arrangement. The song explored themes of loneliness and the human condition, featuring a string quartet that gave it a haunting, melancholic quality. Well-regarded by critics and fans alike, "Eleanor Rigby" solidified The Beatles' place in rock history.

By the time Yes attempted their version in 1969, the music landscape was evolving rapidly. The progressive rock genre was gaining traction, and bands were seeking to push the boundaries of music through innovative compositions. Yes, known for their virtuosic musicianship and complex arrangements, sought to bring a unique perspective to The Beatles' classic.

Analyzing the Yes Version

Listening to Yes's rendition, one immediately notices a distinct transformation from the original. The band injects a sense of urgency and vigor into "Eleanor Rigby," upping the tempo and employing an energetic rhythm section.

Psychedelic Intro

Characteristic of the band’s style, the cover begins with a psychedelic guitar intro provided by Peter Banks and Tony Kaye, which differentiates it significantly from the original arrangement. This stylistic choice speaks to the experimental spirit of the time, showcasing Yes's ability to blend genres seamlessly.

Instrumentation

The cover features powerful drumming and bass parts that elevate the emotional intensity. While The Beatles' version retains a more subdued texture, Yes flips this, creating a version that feels almost triumphant—a stark contrast to the cynicism expressed in Lennon and McCartney's original lyrics.

Vocal Performance

Jon Anderson's ethereal vocals carry a different weight than Paul McCartney's plaintive delivery. Anderson’s soaring voice shapes the song into something expansive—both in sonic terrain and emotional reach.

The Discovery

This recording was uploaded to YouTube by user Ian Hartley under the title "Eleanor Rigby (First Failed Take)," which may imply that this isn’t the final cut. Hartley's discovery seems to have intrigued both dedicated Yes fans and newcomers, with the cover gaining thousands of views shortly after its upload.

"Incredible release! Imagine if they’d finished a recording of it for an early Yes album," one enthusiastic comment states. Another reads, "Please share more. This is amazing stuff." The reactions illustrate a thirst for unreleased material, with this track echoing the sentiments of archival music enthusiasts.

Historical Context of Yes

Yes formed in 1968, amid a burgeoning music scene. Their self-titled debut album marked their entry into the progressive rock domain, characterized by intricate compositions and lyrical fortitude. They became known for their lengthy tracks, union of rock and classical elements, and philosophical musings.

A Rocky Road to Recognition

Despite the challenges they faced with lineup changes and shifting public tastes, Yes crafted a loyal following. And the band's willingness to cover The Beatles—a band that had already left an indelible mark by the time of this recording—speaks volumes about their aspirations and respect for their predecessors.

The Bigger Picture: Music Reclamation

The surface of this rare recording intersects with a broader trend of artists and labels revisiting the archives of music history, influenced by shifts in technology and fan engagement. The rise of digital platforms has facilitated the preservation and release of forgotten audio, allowing long-lost recordings to find a new audience.

The Role of Technology

YouTube and similar platforms have become crucial in preserving musical heritage. Independent producers and dedicated fans share never-before-heard recordings, creating a community around music history. This digital age allows for an unprecedented level of sharing and discovery compared to decades past when such recordings could languish in private collections or archival vaults.

Implications and Future Developments

The release of this Yes track not only rekindles interest in the band's own history but also continues to foster dialogue around the creative processes of legendary artists like The Beatles. For future re-releases, the potential is immense—what other recordings may exist, waiting to be uncovered?

Music archivists and enthusiasts alike will likely continue to explore the tapes of yesteryears. As others dive into their collections, we may well see a renaissance of classic reinterpretations and factual reassessments, bridging generations of musicians and listeners alike.

Conclusion

The resurfacing of Yes's cover of "Eleanor Rigby" stands as a testament to the timeless nature of music and its capability to evolve through reinterpretation. Yes's approach to this classic offers a fresh take that both honors The Beatles' original and showcases their own unique artistry. As fans digest this new yet nostalgic piece, we can anticipate more hidden gems to come, further enriching the tapestry of rock music history.

FAQ

What year was Yes's cover of "Eleanor Rigby" recorded?

Yes's recording of "Eleanor Rigby" was recorded in February 1969.

Is this recording officially released?

No, this version has not been officially released until now and is considered a rare find among Yes's music archives.

What distinguishes Yes's version from The Beatles' original?

Yes's rendition features a faster tempo, a powerful rhythm section, and psychedelic elements absent in the quieter, orchestral arrangement of The Beatles' original.

How can I listen to the Yes cover of "Eleanor Rigby"?

The cover can be streamed on YouTube under the title "Eleanor Rigby (First Failed Take)" uploaded by Ian Hartley.

Why has the recording gained popularity after being uploaded?

The excitement stems from its rarity, coupled with the nostalgia for both Yes and The Beatles, and a growing audience interested in archiving and rediscovering music history.